Wind Storm Basics

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

A rubber roof top deck with a sturdy railing built by our rebuilds team in Norwood, MA

There are many concerns that come with severe storms, with the threat of damaging winds being one of them. These winds can come with little to no notice and have long-term structural impacts.

While many think of damaging winds as a result of a tornado or a hurricane, those are not the only times when they can occur. Traditionally, damaging winds are considered those with wind speeds exceeding 50–60 mph and can stem from a strong thunderstorm. You will often hear damaging winds referred to as “straight-line” winds, differentiating them from the winds caused by a tornado.

The damage from these winds can be especially destructive. Straight-line winds can pick up loose objects in your yard and cause those objects to become projectiles.

Windows and the roof can take the brunt of this damage, and the wind damage is extensive enough, water damage can result as the outside elements are able to come indoors.

Anyone who lives in a thunderstorm-prone area can be at risk from damaging winds, but some structures are more susceptible to damage and are especially at risk. Mobile homes, even anchored mobile homes, can sustain extensive damage in wind gusts over 80 mph.

How to Protect Your Home From Damaging Winds

Here are some of the ways you can help protect your property from damaging winds. Always keep the “Two R’s” in mind: reinforce and remove.

• Ask a professional to reinforce your garage door.

• Remove or anchor loose objects on your property that could easily turn into projectiles by the wind. Don’t forget trash cans, grills and outdoor furniture.

• Hire a professional to remove large or dying trees and branches that may fall on your home.

Not all high wind circumstances come with forewarning, but incorporating some of these suggestions keep your prepared for that “just in case” moment.

Also, if you are building a new home or renovating an older home, check to be sure the windows, walls and doors are up to code for your area.

Should your home be hit by damaging winds and resulting water damage, our highly trained specialists at SERVPRO of Norwood/West Roxbury are here to help with the cleanup and restoration of your home